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November 6, 2024

On Synchronicity

It was Carl Jung who came up with the idea of ‘synchronicity’. Funnily enough he actually knew Albert Einstein and it was inspired by Einstein’s theory of relativity.

So, what is synchronicity ?

Put simply ‘synchronicty’ is meaningful coincidences. It’s where things happen which are coincidental and go alongside a kind of ‘ding’ type of experience shall we say. Carl Jung holds that such are indicators for us that we are on our path of individuation. He wrote a book by this name I personally really enjoyed.

A particular one Carl Jung reports was of a patient of his who was The “golden scarab” story. This is one of Carl Jung’s most famous examples of synchronicity. In this story, Jung was treating a woman who was very rational and resistant to therapy. She described a dream about receiving a golden scarab (a type of beetle, symbolizing transformation in Egyptian mythology).

As she shared the dream, Jung heard a tapping on the window. He opened it and, amazingly, a scarab-like beetle (a rose chafer, with a golden-green color) flew into the room. He handed the beetle to the patient, saying, “Here is your scarab.” This moment of synchronicity broke down her rational defenses, making her more receptive to therapy.

What’s important to recognise here is that not only was this a coincidence but it was a coincidence which was meaningful at that time which had an impact on the client. Other examples highlighted by Jung were someone who was delivered an incorrect suit which was delivered as a black suit (rather than the ordered colour). Shortly afterwards learned that someone had passed away and he needed to attend the funeral.

Jung saw these as a meaningful coincidences that highlighted the connection between the inner world (her dream) and outer events. This therefore illustrated how synchronicity can reveal significant, transformative moments in life.

The joining of the rational and the irrational and left and right brain functions

Carl Jung spoke about the connection of the rational and the irrational and how they are both necessary for our journey in life. Society these days tends to have a reinforcement of predominantly a left-brain way of viewing the world in terms of logical and rationality. Our often-neglected right side though is this place where we find unity and wholeness. It’s also the place of symbols from our unconscious which can guide us on our journey of individuation sometimes from these synchronous experiences. Both seem equally important as far as I can tell for full living. There’s another book which discusses Jung’s friendship with Wolfgang Pauli . This interestingly discusses this rational and irrational connection taking place and being essential for growth.

It’s here where dream work can be helpful to acknowledge so we can keep becoming as conscious as possible of symbols which are coming through to us and what they may mean. I recently wrote a blog on dreams you can find here

I’m becoming increasingly aware personally how there is such an over emphasis on the left side of the brain in terms of how we are conditioned by society. I think that a level of taking this back and syncing ourselves so to speak is essential for our individuation journey.

If you’re feeling somewhat blocked and like things aren’t quite right feel free to get in contact. We can work together to help you on your journey of individuation.

Take care until then

Phil

021 058 3234

www.newbeginningstherapy.co.nz

philip@newbeginningstherapy.co.nz

Book in directly here

November 5, 2024

Working with dreams: How dream work can support personal growth.

Over the years, I’ve grown increasingly interested in working with dreams. I used to hear the phrase “it’s just a dream,” but through life experience, study in therapy, and exploring consciousness, I now see dreams as highly relevant and can be great to work with to support personal growth.

It’s easy to dismiss dreams, especially when they don’t make sense when we wake up. This is often because dreams aren’t literal; they’re symbolic. Sigmund Freud famously described dreams as “the royal road to the unconscious,” a concept that resonates deeply with me. Freud saw dreams as revealing unconscious impulses, while Carl Jung expanded this view, seeing dreams as signposts on our journey toward self-understanding, or what he called individuation.

My Own Journey with Dream Work

In recent months, I’ve kept a journal by my bed to write down my dreams each morning. Recording dreams helps us see recurring themes and symbols, which can reveal valuable insights. One way to interpret dreams is by viewing the people in them as aspects of ourselves. These figures might represent different parts of our psyche working toward greater integration.

Dreams often feature symbols that are deeply personal yet sometimes universal. Jung spoke of the “collective unconscious,” a shared reservoir of archetypal symbols common to humanity. For instance, I’ve had recurring dreams about fish—despite being a vegetarian who hasn’t eaten fish in over a decade. After some research, I found that fish often represent intuition and the exploration of inner depths, aligning with my recent work and interests in inner growth. This insight helped guide me in a direction that feels meaningful.

Another recurring theme in my dreams involves video games. I often find myself in stores considering buying games, a connection to my 80s and 90s childhood passion. After many such dreams, I interpret this symbol as reconnecting with my childlike joy, innocence, and excitement—qualities I strive to embrace in life.

How You Can Start Dream Work for Personal Growth

Dreams offer a rich, symbolic language that can reveal our inner worlds. As you explore your dreams, consider the emotions each symbol evokes, your feelings about the people you encounter, and what these elements might represent about different parts of yourself.

I encourage you to try dream work for personal growth. When you shift from “it’s just a dream” to “wow, what can this dream teach me?” you begin tapping into the potential for self-discovery and healing.

Ready to Dive Deeper?

I’m available for individual and couples counseling, both online (via Zoom) and in person at Highland Park Community House in Auckland. My digital program is also an excellent complement to therapy sessions and can support you in your journey of self-understanding and growth.

I look forward to connecting with you and exploring how dreams and other aspects of therapy can foster meaningful growth in your life.

All the best,
Phil
021 058 3234
newbeginningstherapy.co.nz
philip@newbeginningstherapy.co.nz

August 14, 2024

Benefits of choosing Counseling Packages for Lasting Change

Why Consider Counseling Packages?

Are you considering counseling with me? You’re always welcome to book a one-time session through the direct link provided here: Session Booking. However, if you’re looking for counseling packages for lasting change, I highly recommend considering one of my packages. These packages are designed to provide sustained support and deeper transformation.

The Limitations of One-Time Sessions

While a one-off session can certainly provide immediate relief, much like scratching an itch, I’ve found that true, lasting transformation requires more sustained engagement. Over time, I’ve noticed that those who attend just one session often miss out on the deeper, life-changing benefits of ongoing work. Therefore, it’s like opening a door to new possibilities, only to close it again too soon.

Why Packages Offer More Value

This is why I offer packages of 5 or 10 sessions at discounted rates. These packages provide ongoing support and allow us to delve deeper into the issues you wish to address. Furthermore, while private counselors may not always offer such options, I’ve found that these packages have significantly benefited my clients.

What to Expect After the First Session

Discussing Future Work After an Initial Session

Many clients start with an individual session. At the end of this session, I always add up to an extra 10 minutes to discuss possibilities for future work. Although I’m open to one-off sessions, I believe it’s more beneficial to look ahead and consider what we can achieve together with a package of sessions.

Applying NHS Experience to Private Practice

Reflecting on my time working within the NHS in the UK, clients were often given 8 sessions, with the possibility of extending to 10 or 12 sessions depending on their needs. This structured approach proved highly effective, and as a result, I’ve brought this mindset into my private practice.

The Importance of Commitment

Committing to a package of sessions is a powerful step. Although commitment doesn’t guarantee immediate results, it does create a framework for meaningful progress. Moreover, the very act of showing up consistently allows us to work through old patterns and move toward new possibilities.

Exploring Deeper Issues Together

Discovering the Root of the Problem

Often, clients discover that the issue they initially sought help for evolves as we work together. What may start as a general sense of unease can transform into a deeper exploration of one’s relationship with themselves and others. Therefore, this is where the true value of a package lies—in the ability to explore, understand, and heal on a deeper level.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re interested in booking an initial session or want to learn more about my counseling packages for lasting change, feel free to reach out:

Further Reading on Counseling

Here are some additional resources for more information on how counseling helps and the benefits of multiple sessions:

August 6, 2024

Improve your romantic relationship with a simple strategy

As a therapist, I often work with relationships in trouble. There are many techniques and tools we dive into to improve things and move towards a common goal. Today, I want to share a simple yet potentially relationship-saving tool to help you improve your romantic relationship. It’s worth a try if you’re not already doing this.

Commit to 90 Minutes of Talking and One Date per Week to Improve Your Romantic Relationship

It’s as simple as committing to speaking with your loved one for a total of 90 minutes per week and having one date per week. You might already be doing this, or maybe not. Either way, let’s delve deeper to make this clearer and more comprehensive.

The Importance of Talking in Improving Your Romantic Relationship

The talking involves a specific type of communication. In transactional analysis, it’s called the ‘Adult ego state’. Here, you are assertive, honest, timely, and express your wants and needs. Our minds often overcomplicate things by trying to fix or analyze too much. The idea is to show up and be present with what is happening. For instance, you might be upset about the state of the house, want to discuss your next date, or suggest an activity you haven’t done in a while.

The goal is to honestly express your feelings. Simple starter statements like ‘I feel…’ and ‘I would like…’ can help connect with your partner. It takes two to tango, so both partners need to be on board. However, even if you start this practice alone, you might see positive changes. If you feel rebutted by your partner, bring it into the conversation. How did you feel when your communication was pushed back? What do you want? How would you like your relationship to be?

A psychologist I learned this from gives this as a must in the first session with clients. While I don’t assign homework, I do check on this aspect of the relationship and suggest it as a possibility to try.

The Power of a Weekly Date to Improve Your Romantic Relationship

Remember, the date doesn’t need to be extravagant. The key is doing something of mutual interest that both partners enjoy. Whether it’s going out to the cinema or relaxing at home with a glass of wine and a movie, the important part is spending quality time together.

Reflect on Your Relationship

How are you feeling right now? What’s coming up for you as you reflect on your relationship and consider this strategy to improve your romantic relationship?

I encourage you to give this a try if you want to improve your romantic relationship. Tools like this can be very helpful, but remember, they are not a replacement for therapy sessions. I am back after my leave and available for in-person sessions at Highland Park Community House in Auckland and online via Zoom. Feel free to reach out if I can help you and your relationships.

Give me a call, email, or book directly through the link below.

All the best, Phil
021 058 3234

https://newbeginningstherapy.co.nz/session-booking/

Check out these articles for more relationship tips:

The Importance of Date Night

How to Communicate Better in a Relationship

New Beginnings Therapy

Philip@newbeginningstherapy.co.nz 
https://newbeginningstherapy.co.nz/package-page/
https://newbeginningstherapy.co.nz/foundation-builder-1-0/

Session Booking